British Rowing has been recognised with the Leadership Award for its pioneering approach to environmental sustainability, showcased through the “Help Our Waters Thrive” initiative. Launched in March as part of its wider Environmental Sustainability Strategy, this initiative underscores British Rowing’s commitment to protecting water ecosystems—critical to the sport’s future—and aligns with BASIS principles of Water and Effluents, Materials and Chemicals, and Biodiversity and Habitats.
By advocating for cleaner water, mobilising clubs to engage in water quality testing, and forming key partnerships with organisations such as The Rivers Trust, River Action, and the newly launched Clean Water Sports Alliance, British Rowing is driving tangible environmental change and demonstrating exemplary leadership.
How has there been a sustainable impact? British Rowing’s “Help Our Waters Thrive” initiative has had a wide-reaching impact, fostering a culture of sustainability and water conservation through various key actions:
- Club Involvement: Seven rowing clubs have joined forces with River Action to carry out water quality testing in their local areas, contributing valuable data and raising awareness about water pollution. The national team base in Caversham has committed to a year-long water testing initiative, where athletes and staff have been trained by River Action and Earthwatch to track water quality.
- Advocacy and Education: British Rowing has empowered its members to take a proactive role in environmental advocacy. During a Clean Water Webinar, attended by 85 members, the organisation shared guidance on testing water quality and encouraged clubs to participate in River Action’s “Rescue Our Rivers” initiative and Earthwatch’s “Water Blitz” weekend. This data-driven approach strengthens advocacy efforts for cleaner waters across the country.
- Partnership with Delphis: In collaboration with eco-friendly brand Delphis, British Rowing educates clubs on reducing chemical pollution, promoting the use of sustainable cleaning products. This initiative, combined with product demonstrations at club events and discounts, encourages a shift toward environmentally conscious practices that reduce harmful water contaminants.
- Check, Clean, Dry: As part of a partnership with the Animal and Health Agency, British Rowing launched a “Check, Clean, Dry” initiative to prevent the spread of invasive species, educating clubs on the importance of biosecurity through webinars and interactive events.
- Data and Advocacy: British Rowing is gathering data on illness among rowers due to polluted waters to advocate for faster action from water companies and government bodies. In ongoing discussions with Thames Water and Severn Trent Water, British Rowing is pressing for tangible improvements in water quality.
- Thriving Waters Scheme: The “Thriving Waters” project offers clubs the tools and knowledge to engage in water testing, litter removal, and invasive species management. This grassroots initiative empowers clubs and local communities to contribute to water conservation efforts, extending the impact of British Rowing’s environmental leadership.
How has there been a positive impact on sport? British Rowing’s environmental leadership has created significant positive change within the sport and beyond:
- The Boat Race Campaign: A collaboration with River Action during The Boat Race garnered exceptional media attention, with over 1,700 stories across the globe, including 348 mentions on TV, such as a feature on BBC Breakfast. This campaign brought British Rowing’s advocacy for clean water to a broader audience and heightened awareness around water quality issues.
- Clean Water Sports Alliance: British Rowing has been instrumental in the creation of the Clean Water Sports Alliance, a collective initiative advocating for cleaner waters across various water sports. This partnership has amplified the influence of water sports in pushing for cleaner water policies and earned widespread support from athletes and organisations.
- Advocacy for Policy Change: British Rowing’s efforts have sparked significant support among MPs and policymakers. The organisation’s advocacy, alongside River Action, has highlighted the urgency of tackling water pollution and secured crucial government consultations on the designation of recreational water bodies with bathing water status.
- Ambassador Advocacy: Olympian Imogen Grant has become a high-profile advocate for The Rivers Trust, bringing visibility to British Rowing’s environmental efforts. Her engagement with media, events, and public forums has strengthened British Rowing’s influence and added weight to its advocacy campaigns.
Judges’ Comments:
- Widespread engagement of the whole sport: British Rowing’s initiatives engage clubs, athletes, and the broader rowing community in collective action for cleaner water, fostering a shared commitment to sustainability.
- Work across other water sports: British Rowing has extended its leadership through partnerships with other water sports, contributing significantly to the establishment of the Clean Water Sports Alliance, a groundbreaking initiative for collective environmental advocacy.
- Advocacy impact: British Rowing’s work has generated significant support for policy change among MPs, driving a national conversation about water pollution and the need for stronger regulatory frameworks to protect water ecosystems.
Through its innovative approach, British Rowing is setting a powerful example for environmental leadership in sport. By leveraging its influence, the organisation has not only driven change within rowing but also contributed to a broader movement advocating for cleaner waters, inspiring others to follow suit.
